Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has appointed African Democratic Congress chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo as his spokesperson, despite the actor-turned-politician’s recent public criticism of the party’s vice-presidential choice for the 2027 general election.
The Punch reported that Okonkwo confirmed the appointment in a statement posted on his official X page on Thursday, where he expressed appreciation to Atiku for entrusting him with the role.
“I give God all the glory to be appointed by His Excellency Atiku Abubakar as his Spokesperson. I thank HE AA for the immense confidence reposed in me,” he said.
Reflecting on the appointment, Okonkwo said it demonstrated Atiku’s willingness to engage with differing opinions rather than react negatively to criticism.
“Rather than pick offence against any of his associates for expressing genuine reservations of any action taken, HE AA always opts for dialogue and compromise that will engender solution to problems.”
He further revealed that discussions with Atiku and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress addressed concerns about the political interests of the South-East, which he said had been considered within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026.
“At a dialogue with HE AA and other well-meaning members of the African Democratic Congress, the interests of the South-East have been discussed and guaranteed within the existing challenges posed by the Electoral Act, 2026, and the realities on the ground,” he stated.
Okonkwo also acknowledged the contributions of Dr Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr Ekene Onwuka, for their efforts in strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 polls.
“My sincere gratitude to my family, fans, and friends for their support and prayers, which God answered in covering my errors and colouring my efforts to pave way for this appointment. I still covet your prayers for wisdom, courage, provision, and protection needed to carry out this challenging post, which will usher in a glorious and great Nigeria,” he added.
The appointment follows Okonkwo’s recent criticism of the ADC’s decision on its vice-presidential candidate. He had warned that reports suggesting the party would pick a candidate from the South-South risked deepening what he described as the continued marginalisation of the South-East in Nigeria’s political leadership.
According to him, such a decision would leave the South-East without representation in either the presidency or vice presidency, a pattern he said had existed since 1999.
The ADC has since settled on former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as Atiku’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election after the former vice president secured the party’s presidential ticket at its nationwide primary.
